Red lipstick has its origins in ancient cultures, with both men and women decorating their lips with various concoctions of crushed gemstones, ochre soil and plant extracts to achieve a desired red hue. It was in the Middle Ages and Renaissance that red lips took on a new meaning. The relationship between pallor and nobility led women to use red lip color as a stark contrast, signifying wealth and privilege. However, red lipstick found itself at the center of controversy. In the 18th century, some saw it as an obscene attempt to deceive men into marrying. Red lips, on the other hand, continued to be seen and were considered a silent act of defiance.
The 1920s were not just called 'turbulent', they were an era of social upheaval and female liberation, and red lipstick emerged as a symbol of liberation. The young women of the decade defied conventional norms, made bold use of their rouge in the public sphere, and embraced their new freedoms. Hollywood stars such as Clara Boe and Louise Brooks have made the trend even more popular, linking red lips with glamour and seduction.
An eternal symbol of temptation. Red lipstick, photo: @oliana_gruzdeva / Freepik
Red lipstick has taken on a different role in times of conflict. In the 2s, when women were an important part of the workforce en masse during World War II, red lipstick became a symbol of resilience and strength, as well as a statement of femininity in a space traditionally dominated by men. The second half of the 20th century witnessed cultural revolutions that redefined perceptions of beauty. From the rebellious spirit of the sixties to the androgynous aesthetic of the nineties, red lipstick has stuck around and adapted to reflect the changing times. It has become a tool for self-expression, for challenging societal expectations and for embracing diversity.
In the 21st century, red lipstick has found new meaning in the age of social media activism. The #RedMyLips movement, for example, empowers survivors of sexual violence, turning cosmetic choice into a symbol of solidarity and strength.
Beyond its historical and cultural implications, red lipstick has interesting psychological effects. Studies have shown that red lipstick, or the 'red lip effect' as it's called, can increase self-confidence and change perceptions of attractiveness and abilities.
From jeans and tees and jeans to a black dress, red lipstick adds a touch of chic to everything. It's second to none in upgrading any makeup look. From anointing two and you desire to glow. Sometimes all you need is a little foundation and a little mascara, but mostly it. It is true for any skin tone and any time.
Garlan: KissKiss Shine Bloom Lipstick by Guerlain - 709 Petal Red
A shine lipstick made from 95% natural ingredients. An exceptionally melting texture glides over lips for a luminous finish and watery shine. Hyaluronic Acid is formulated with konjac extract for long-lasting intense hydration, nourishing and softening winter rose extract oil for lips and organic shea butter for optimal comfort.
Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge Drama Matte Lipstick - 505 Drama Matte Attrape Coeur
The most luxurious and chic option on this list. A continuous moisturizing formula that combines rose extract and hyaluronic acid. This moisture pair delivers sustained hydration without compromising lasting strength. One stroke ensures rich pigment for a long time.
Chanel: Chanel Rouge Allure Ink - No. 152 Choquant
A durable liquid lipstick with a smooth texture with an airy gloss feel set in a velvet finish. Weightless and instantly blends with lips for a long-lasting result. This particular shade is shocking in a good sense (Choquant, French: shocking).
Everglass: Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm - THRILL 165 BRIGHT RED
Not about Matt? This is the lipstick for you. Non-sticky shine finish. This formula softens lips with an indulgent blend of argan oil, avocado oil and mango seed butter, while mentyl lactate adds a cooling sensation to the touch.
Maybelline: Maybelline New York Super Stay Vinyl Ink - Red Hot
A durable lipstick that, unlike many durable lipsticks, does not have a matte finish, but is super shiny, and does not dry the lips. And not only does the pigment last up to 16 hours, but so does the shine.
Shiseido: Modern Matte Powder Lipstick - 516 Exotic Red
A dream come true for red lovers who hate the feeling of too much product. Ultra-light texture resulting in a weightless finish that dries matte and lasts up to eight hours. In addition, an angular ball applicator facilitates precise application.
Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick - Beso
Stilla's Stay All Day series is best known for its eyeliner, but let's also give credit to this equally successful lipstick. From one stroke you have an intense hue and a moisturizing creamy finish. Plus Vitamin E and Avocado Oil ensures lasting comfort.
Revlon: Revlon ColorStay Suede Ink – 016 Bread Winner
Bold lipsticks tend to accentuate cracked skin and dry cracks. That's not the case here. This lightweight lipstick with Vitamin E provides a bold complexion and lasting hydration. In addition, a built-in primer ensures an eight-hour durability. Bread Winner has a blue touch that compliments and adds drama to a light skin tone (one with bluish capillaries).
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